Eight protesters were issued written warnings Thursday for criminal trespassing at Yellowwood State Forest, according to state officials.

These masked individuals were staging a direct action at the entrance to forest, where a controversial logging operation in the backcountry area is underway.

No arrests were made, according to a statement released by Department of Natural Resources spokeswoman Tara Wolf, and the situation ended after the warnings were given.

Brown County resident Dave Seastrom told IndyStar that there was heavy police presence Thursday afternoon on Orcutt Road, which has been used as the access point for logging operations in the forest. This logging began shortly before the new year and has been the focus of much public attention.

It is unclear what type of action the individuals were taking in protest and DNR did not immediately respond to questions.

The law enforcement arm of the Department of Natural Resources is taking the lead on the investigation, according to Brown County Sheriff's Deputy Josh Stargell. DNR's conservation officers responded to a call regarding trespassing at the Brown County forest property, which is closed to the public for the ongoing timber harvest.

200 protesters gathered outside the Yellowwood State Forest Office to voice their dissent of logging in the state’s back country area. Despite their efforts, the Department of Natural Resources proceeded with the sale.
Mykal McEldowney/IndyStar